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Alex Ferguson has branded "stupid" the policy of clubs ditching managers without giving them enough time to do their jobs properly.

The former Manchester United boss delivered a clear sign David Moyes will not be fired despite a difficult start this season as Ferguson’s successor, and that United would stick to a patient approach.

"Of course they will [stick to their philosophy], they've always been that way," Ferguson told BBC Sport. "Everybody knows what Manchester United is.

"I can never understand that [why clubs do not show patience]. They must discuss the qualities of the manager they are going to offer the job to. You must look at his CV, his character, the philosophy he has.

"If that is the way they have gone about giving the man the job, why don't they persevere with it?

"It goes for maybe a year, then they change, and go through the same procedure again. It seems so stupid to me."

Ferguson’s comments came on the day United confirmed they had reached agreement with Chelsea over the club record transfer of Juan Mata, the Spanish midfielder expected to complete a medical on Saturday.

Former Reds striker Michael Owen also hinted at the possibility of more signings to come.

"So, Juan Mata is on the verge of a move to United," Owen said. "A little dickie bird tells me there is more good news for United fans coming soon!"